Professional Experience:
Professional Assistance for Development Action (PRADAN)
Project Executive | November 2011 - June 2024
As a Project Executive at PRADAN, I have dedicated over a decade to managing and leading multiple teams, driving significant projects, and fostering sustainable community development. My role encompassed a diverse range of responsibilities and achievements, including the following:
Managed and Led Teams:
I directed multiple teams under projects such as Integrated Participatory Planning Exercise (IPPE), IPPE-2, Cluster Facilitation Team (CFT), and USHARMUKTI. Collaborating closely with Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) teams at both block and district levels, I ensured seamless coordination, effective budget management, and strong stakeholder linkages. This collaborative approach was crucial in aligning our efforts with broader government initiatives and maximizing our impact.
Watershed Planning and Fund Mobilization:
My efforts in developing over 60 watershed plans and preparing Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) successfully mobilized more than 900 Crores in government funds. These initiatives led to the creation of essential water bodies, permanent vegetation, and other natural resource management (NRM) structures. By significantly enhancing the management and utilization of local resources, we improved water availability and soil conservation, which are vital for sustainable agriculture and community resilience.
Capacity Building:
A significant part of my role involved capacity building, where I groomed over 72 supervisors/mates under the MGNREGS framework and trained more than 50 Community Animal Health Workers (CAHWs). I initiated livestock activities, ensuring vaccination programs reached over 2,500 poor households. These programs led to improved livestock health and productivity, boosting the incomes of participating households and contributing to better living standards.
Community Development:
I trained and developed over 300 community cadres in agriculture, livestock, and institution building. By conducting extensive training and capacity-building programs, I enhanced community resilience, self-sufficiency, and engagement in agricultural and livestock activities. These efforts empowered communities to take charge of their development and improved their socio-economic conditions.
Collaborative Planning:
Partnerships with professionals and other NGOs were integral to implementing large-scale projects like USHARMUKTI and comprehensive village planning under the Revitalizing Rain-fed Agriculture (RRA) project. These collaborative efforts significantly improved village-level planning and execution, earning recognition with the 7th CSR Impact Award in the Environment category in 2021.
Project Implementation:
I led the successful implementation of various NRM structures under the USHARMUKTI initiative. This involved meticulous planning and coordination, resulting in significant environmental impact. Our work in environmental conservation was recognized for its excellence and contribution to sustainable development.
Throughout my tenure at PRADAN, my focus has been on driving sustainable development and fostering community engagement. My experience in team management, watershed planning, capacity building, community development, collaborative planning, and project implementation has equipped me with the skills and knowledge to lead impactful development projects. I am committed to continuing this work, leveraging my expertise to create and implement programs that promote equity, inclusion, and long-term positive change for vulnerable populations.